Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner

Delight in the sweet and fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:50:19.275Z

These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining fluffy vanilla cupcakes with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor
Perfect for summer gatherings and celebrations

      

The Perfect Summer Treat

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes embody the essence of summer with their vibrant flavors and light textures. Ideal for outdoor picnics, birthday parties, or family gatherings, these cupcakes bring a refreshing twist to traditional desserts. The combination of fluffy cake, sweet strawberries, and whipped cream will have your guests reaching for seconds. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a sunny day, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

Not only do they taste delicious, but Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are visually appealing as well. The bright red strawberries contrasting against the creamy white whipped topping create a stunning presentation. They are a feast for the eyes and the palate, making them an excellent choice for any festive table. Plus, the individual serving size makes them convenient and easy to enjoy.

Baking Tips for Success

When making these cupcakes, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps achieve a uniform batter that bakes evenly, resulting in light and fluffy cupcakes. Softened butter is key to creating a smooth and airy mixture when creaming with sugar. Take your time mixing the batter; this step is crucial for incorporating air, which contributes to the cupcakes' delightful texture.

It's important to avoid over-mixing once you add the dry ingredients. Gently fold them into the wet mixture until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense cupcakes rather than the desired light and fluffy result. Also, keep an eye on your baking time. Ovens can vary, so check your cupcakes a minute or two before the recommended time to prevent over-baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes fresh for the best experience. The combination of freshly whipped cream and sweet strawberries complements the cupcake's lightness perfectly. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with a mint leaf or a sprinkle of lemon zest to enhance the flavors. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a delightful finishing touch.

These cupcakes can be made ahead of time but are best enjoyed on the same day they are assembled. If you plan to prepare them in advance, you can bake the cupcakes and store them in an airtight container. Assemble with whipped cream and strawberries just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture. They make a fantastic dessert option for summer barbecues or as a sweet treat after a family dinner.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes:

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Strawberry Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to wash the strawberries thoroughly before using them.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious cupcakes:

Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.

Bake the Cupcakes

Line a cupcake tray with paper liners and fill each liner about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once cupcakes are cooled, top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream, then add the macerated strawberries on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Enjoy your fresh Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes with family and friends!

Storage Tips

To store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best to store the cupcakes and toppings separately until you're ready to enjoy them again. This prevents the cupcakes from becoming soggy due to the moisture from the strawberries and whipped cream. They can be stored for up to 2-3 days, but for optimal freshness, consume them within the first day after assembly.

If you want to prepare them in advance, bake the cupcakes and store them at room temperature for up to two days. Once cooled, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the cupcakes and add the toppings fresh.

Variations to Try

While classic Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are delightful, you can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Consider using other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version. You might also experiment with different flavorings in the whipped cream, such as almond extract or lemon zest, to give it a unique twist.

For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious cupcakes, regardless of dietary restrictions. You can also try adding a layer of lemon curd between the cupcake and the whipped cream for an added zing that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor, but you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Just thaw and drain them well before using.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture as an egg substitute in this recipe.